Explanation

To find the ratio, we need to convert both measurements to the same unit. Let's convert feet to inches (1 foot = 12 inches).

3 feet = 3 * 12 = 36 inches

Now, the ratio is:

36 inches : 16 inches

To simplify, divide both numbers by their greatest common divisor (GCD), which is 4:

36 ÷ 4 = 9

16 ÷ 4 = 4

The simplified ratio is:

9/4